Re: fried battery terminal
Sorry to hear that! At least the boat didn't start on fire! The heat could have been caused by a loose or corroded battery cable connection, or could be a short, most likely the former. Some batteries' terminals can be repaired if the battery wasn't otherwise damaged. Check with your local battery supplier for a terminal repair kit, or if they can repair it for you- a lot cheaper than a new battery these days! After the battery is repaired or replaced you can test current draw with a DC ampmeter. Either borrow one or take it to a shop that has one- just remember to bring water earmuffs and hose to safely crank and start engine if its not your local marine machanic. Some local auto parts stores have rental tools you can use for "free"- you pay a deposit for the tool, then return it and get your deposit back. My local Schuck's/O'Reilly's does that. Of course, a thorough visual inspection is in order as well. Check both battery cables from one end to the other for cooked/bubbled/hardened/cracked insulation and both ends for corrosion which may be fuzzy green or white, or a hard black coating. If any doubt, replace the cables. Clean the ends to shiny silver or copper color, then apply anticorrosive grease or spray. In a pinch regular grease or petroleum jelly will do. Good luck, and I wish you success! Mark
